Planning to install a new concrete driveway, walkway, or stairs on your Melbourne property? Either way, you need to decide on the right concrete finish for your upcoming project!
If you work with expert concreters in Melbourne, chances are that they offer a wide range of concrete finishes. Here’s what to know about common concrete finishes and how they can impact the value of your property:
What Are Concrete Finishes?
A concrete finish is how you alter the texture, colour, and appearance of the concrete. There are different types of concrete finishes to choose from. Professional concreters in Melbourne create concrete finishes using specialised tools and techniques.
Exposed Aggregate
To achieve this concrete finish, crushed gravel or stones are added to the concrete mix. This gives your concrete a textured surface that’s great for improving traction. Concreters remove the cement paste off the top to reveal the aggregate underneath, giving it a decorative look. You can customise it with stones of different colours and create various patterns.
Broom Finish
This is a slightly textured finish that concreters prepare by dragging a horsehair broom across the surface. By dragging it in different directions, they can create various patterns like circles, waves, and even a chessboard design. It’s subtle, but it’s a step up from smooth concrete, making it a fantastic choice for spaces with minimalist architecture.
Stamped
This involves using a mould to create patterns that mimic other materials. With this finish, your concrete can look like brick, natural stone, or even slate. All without the time and cost these materials require to install.
How Concrete Finishes Impact Property Value
Improved Visual Appeal
One of the main reasons Melbourne property owners select concrete finishes is to improve the installation’s visual appeal. While plain concrete has its perks, not everyone prefers a simple finish. A broom finish, stamped concrete, or exposed aggregate gives your concrete a brand-new look.
Longer Lasting Concrete
A major advantage of choosing a quality concrete finish is that it makes your installation durable. By improving the concrete’s resistance to wear and tear, you can cut back on maintenance costs. A good example of this is exposed aggregate; it’s the strongest concrete finish out there because of its low cement-to-water ratio. Plus, the addition of crushed stones and pebbles increases the lifespan of your concrete structure.
Increased Functionality of Your Outdoor Space
Besides improving the appearance of your concrete, a quality finish can also enhance its functionality. Textured concrete finishes like broom finish or exposed aggregate concrete can make your outdoor space safer. These finishes can provide extra traction to your concrete surface, reducing the risks of slipping and improving functionality. From cookouts to neighbourhood basketball matches, you can make the most of your concrete patios and driveways.
Customise Your Concrete Pavers, Paths, and More
From modern and contemporary to traditional and classic, expert concreters can create a finish that aligns with your architecture and decor needs. A prime example is stamped concrete, which can be customised to mimic the appearance of other materials like natural stone, slate, or bricks.
There’s also coloured concrete, which can be customised to achieve your desired shade, whether you prefer deep reds, browns, or greens. And you can select the size, shape, and colour of aggregate added to your exposed aggregate concrete.
Builds Curb Appeal
Most concrete finishes are used for landscaping projects like driveways, walkways, retaining walls, and patios. By adding a quality finish to your concrete, you can boost the property’s curb appeal. Whether you plan on selling now or a few years down the line, a good concrete finish will set your home apart from other listings and attract potential buyers.
Hire Expert Concreters in Melbourne for Quality Finishes
To sum it up, a good finish can give your concrete a fantastic look, improve your property’s curb appeal, and provide durability. Though each type of concrete finish has its advantages, you need a professional to get a quality finish. Expert concreters in Melbourne can achieve your desired results without compromising on durability and longevity.
At Galcon Contractors, we specialise in all kinds of concrete finishes ranging from exposed aggregate to coloured concrete. Get in touch with us to know more about our different finishes and concrete services.